Should I notify my MOC about my LOA?

[ParachutePanda]

Hello All!

I recently received an LOA from USNA and was wondering if I should send the information to my MOC, even if USNA is my second choice. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

 

[A1Janitor]

I guess it would depend on the competitiveness of the district.

Could choice one leave you without a nom to USNA, and potentially a lower candidate WCS to #1?

Can you answer why USNA is a second choice with LOA in hand?

I would tell them.

 

[8th Wing Refugee]

As a member of my MOC's nomination panel, I would say that knowing that USNA has interest in you to the level of a LOA would be important information to disclose.

 

[Old Navy BGO]

How about using the direct approach --, i.e. tell the MOC that you have an LOA from USNA, but ________ is still your first choice ?
There is nothing wrong with being honest and upfront.

 

[Dr. Strange Love]

.
I agree … I think the MOCs should know.

Curious … what is your 1st choice?
.

 

[ParachutePanda]

.
I agree … I think the MOCs should know.

Curious … what is your 1st choice?
.

As of right now, USAFA is my first choice. However, I am going to CVW on the 28th. I'll be keeping an open mind to anything, it's not every day that a magical unicorn pops in your portal.

 

[jl123]

My opinion: You should send a brief, polite email informing them of the LOA and requesting the updated information be added to your file. Attach a copy of the LOA.

Often one committee will handle nominations for all SA's. Even if USNA is your second choice, the LOA could enhance your standing with the committee thereby improving your chances for nomination to your first choice.

Also, if nominations in your district are scarce, it could be the tipping factor in getting a nomination to USNA in addition to your first choice.

 

[Bono Bear]

My DS received an LOA and he was also interested in how to handle that with MOC interviews. I know there are conflicting opinions on that. I thought it would be a good idea as Jl123 described above. Although I believe the B&G Officer told DS that if the MOC brings it up great but for DS not to bring it up because it would seem like bragging or acting like he thinks he's already in. Will the MOC panel know that DS got one if he doesn't bring it up or give them a copy of the LOA? So DS is not sure how to handle it. As I posted before USNA is first choice and that's who he got the LOA from. Advise appreciated.

 

[A1Janitor]

My DS received an LOA and he was also interested in how to handle that with MOC interviews. I know there are conflicting opinions on that. I thought it would be a good idea as Jl123 described above. Although I believe the B&G Officer told DS that if the MOC brings it up great but for DS not to bring it up because it would seem like bragging or acting like he thinks he's already in. Will the MOC panel know that DS got one if he doesn't bring it up or give them a copy of the LOA? So DS is not sure how to handle it. As I posted before USNA is first choice and that's who he got the LOA from. Advise appreciated.

Send it to the MOC staff and of course you bring it up. That nomination is what you need (assuming 3Q) to get in. It isn’t bragging - it is laying out your case for a nomination.

 

[Don't Give Up the Ship]

My DS received an LOA and he was also interested in how to handle that with MOC interviews. I know there are conflicting opinions on that. I thought it would be a good idea as Jl123 described above. Although I believe the B&G Officer told DS that if the MOC brings it up great but for DS not to bring it up because it would seem like bragging or acting like he thinks he's already in. Will the MOC panel know that DS got one if he doesn't bring it up or give them a copy of the LOA? So DS is not sure how to handle it. As I posted before USNA is first choice and that's who he got the LOA from. Advise appreciated.

If you received a LOA, its a fact. Bring it up. Say that your proud of the LOA accomplishment and that getting the NOM will complete the Appointment. Keep it simple and factual.

 

[NavyHoops]

MOCs should know, but they don’t always. It’s best to send it. As suggested above, if it comes up be humble about it.

 

[jl123]

In general it is best not to try to tout accomplishments with the goal of impressing those around you - that does not apply to interviews.

Prior to going into an interview it is wise to have 3 - 5 bullet points representing strengths that you want to make sure get covered. The longer the interview, the more bullet points. That is not bragging. Every interview is a sales call and in a nomination interview, you are the product and the salesperson.

An LOA to USNA would be one of my primary bullet points if USNA were my first choice. As a second choice, I would try to work it in after covering my primary points, assuming the interviewers did not bring it up.